Man arrested after smoke grenade found in luggage

A man dressed in a bulletproof vest and flame- retardant pants was arrested by federal officials at Los Angeles International Airport after a smoke grenade, gas mask, leg irons and weapons were discovered in his luggage, authorities said Tuesday.

Boston-bound Yongda Huang Harris, 28, was arrested Friday on suspicion of transporting hazardous materials on a flight from Japan, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials said.

Harris is a U.S. citizen whose permanent residence is in Boston and recently started living and working in Japan, officials said.

Harris’ initial court appearance, scheduled for Tuesday, was postponed to Friday. He has been charged with one count of transporting hazardous materials, an offense that carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison.

Federal authorities provided no details about why Harris might have been carrying the items. An investigation is ongoing.

Harris drew suspicion when U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers noticed he was wearing the bulletproof vest and flame-retardant pants under his trenchcoat.